The aim of Fight 4 Life is to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, an incredibly hardworking and important charity, and also to put across the message that has become obvious to our family…
Lynda (my mother-in-law), me (Carmela), and Brenda (my grandmother-in-law).
The word CANCER can instil fear and understandably has a negative connotation. However thanks to research and strides in medical science more people than ever before who have been diagnosed with Cancer are treated and go on to have an excellent quality of life whilst the disease is controlled, or better still cured.
Please make yourself and others aware that being diagnosed with this disease is not the end of the world! In fact in many cases it has been the start of a new life and strange though it may seem, some have said it’s the best thing that’s happened to them. I’m sure whilst going through what can be tiring and uncomfortable treatment that was not the phrase that sprung to mind, but during this much of life is put into perspective and a new philosophy adopted. This is true not only of the person directly affected but by their loved ones too.
I personally know many people who have been diagnosed and I’m sure you do too, which is why we want to support the work of Cancer Research UK and whilst doing so get some awareness of the treatments available and the wonderful SUCCESS rate.
In order to raise extra funds and get some extra fun into the world we would like to invite you to:
The Fight 4 Life Charity Ball
Dress Code is Black Tie and Happy Face
We want GLAM not GLOOM
Please note guests will not be admitted without a smile on their face!
The Fight 4 Life Charity Ball is the brainchild of Carmela Cook, my daughter in law, who has put an unbelievable amount of time and effort into getting it off the ground and promoting it, in order to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and raise awareness of the disease in general.
The idea first came to her during 2008 when my mother Brenda was diagnosed with Head and Throat Cancer. It was a gruelling time with endless operations, procedures, radiotherapy etc. The difficulty of this horrible situation was undoubtedly made more bearable by the professional and untiring dedication of the medical staff. Each person was treated as an individual rather than ‘just another’ patient. These professionals give families the chance to be with their loved ones for longer.
Carmela felt that the dedication and care really should be recognised and that whilst money can’t solve everything, she decided to raise as much as possible to enable further research into the disease, and so the plans for the Charity Ball began to take shape.
No matter how worthwhile the end result, the planning of such an event can be difficult, frustrating and tiring however Carmela is not one to be phased by this and was determined to make it a success.
We are all aware that life can be cruel at times, and one of those times hit Carmela, David and Rocco out of the blue, when she herself was diagnosed with Cancer. It was a truly terrible time and could have had the worst outcome imaginable as hers was small cell cancer of the ovaries which is very rare and very aggressive.
Once the diagnosis was made time was of the essence and she underwent a major operation and after convalescence long hours of chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed. Although I know it was a dark and frightening time for them, not once did they adopt the ‘why me’ policy, but continued to function as a close and loving family putting others needs ahead of theirs. Many were even unaware of their turmoil; Carmela continued to work and only two or three of her work colleagues knew she was unwell.
I think most people having gone through the same situation would then sit back and think ‘that was horrific and I’ve had enough... now it’s time to focus on me’. That could not be further from the truth and the fact that the event is now a reality has to be commended!
During the Event we will be thinking about those who we love who have been affected by Cancer, many thankfully still with us, and knowing that those who aren’t will be watching us and enjoying it too. Oh and one without a doubt, will be dancing as well... won’t you Tricia!?
We would ask you to come along to the Ball and have a really fun and enjoyable evening. Even if you are unable to join us, please don’t think we would be offended if you offered a donation or raffle prize!